Monetization experiments are heating up for Mac and iOS apps. From subscription fatigue to one-time buys, developers are testing pricing across QuietQuest, Grivus, LeedPDF, Upyng, WhisperDirect, and Projectholic.
• QuietQuest — free to download with optional premium features for $2.99/month or $19.99/year on the App Store [1].
• Grivus — free to try, with a Pro version available at an intro price until Nov 1 ($1.99) [2].
• LeedPDF — one-time purchase: $39.99 lifetime access; now available on the Mac App Store [3].
• Upyng — Diwali offer: Upyng (macOS) and Upyng Go (iPadOS) are $0.99 (was $9.99) for a limited time; no subscriptions [4].
• Projectholic — free to download; devs are welcoming feedback as it grows [5].
• WhisperDirect — OpenAI API key required; pay-as-you-go with no subscriptions; trial up to 5 uses, then a one-time purchase of $2 to unlock all features [6].
Projects taping into price models show a spectrum: subscriptions, lifetime access, and pay-as-you-go all have a place on the Mac/iOS stage. As these apps evolve, the winner will be the one that best matches user needs and value.
References: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
References
I built QuietQuest: A simple iOS app that reminds you to take micro-breaks throughout your workday
Indie iOS dev launches QuietQuest, a simple break reminder app with on-device privacy, no ads, subscription options; asks for feedback.
View sourceI built Grivus — a clean habit tracker with no subscriptions
Grivus launches iOS habit tracker with Apple Health sync; positive UI feedback, widget support; bug noted; Streaks comparison discussed overall.
View sourcePDF drawing and annotation tool that feels like sketching on paper. Now available on Mac
Mac release for LeedPDF, privacy-focused PDF annotator; offline, no data collection, one-time purchase, draw on PDFs.
View sourceDiwali Offer: Upyng & Upyng Go now just $0.99 (was $9.99) till Oct 26
Diwali discount for Upyng macOS and Upyng Go iPadOS to 0.99; offline tools, no subscriptions, links; ends Oct 26 today.
View sourceJust shipped Projectholic — a project manager for juggling multiple projects (would love feedback)
Indie iOS app Projectholic ships, offers project-based management, timeline and calendar; roadmap includes reminders, focus timer, widgets; positive reception.
View sourceBring your own OpenAI API key for transparent, pay-as-you-go pricing — no subscriptions.
WhisperDirect iOS app; bring your own OpenAI API key; pay-as-you-go pricing; no subscriptions; fast transcription; Slack, SRT/VTT, Drive backup.
View source